The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) have issued a reminder to Tennesseans to prioritize fire safety while preparing Thanksgiving meals. As families gather on November 28, 2024, to celebrate Thanksgiving, the risk of cooking-related fires increases, making it crucial to exercise caution in the kitchen.
Thanksgiving is recognized as the peak day for home cooking fires across the United States, with incidents occurring at more than three times the daily average. In Tennessee, cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires, accounting for over 18.54% of the state’s reported home structure fires in 2023. These incidents led to 27 civilian injuries, 7 firefighter injuries, and caused more than $9.5 million in direct property damage.
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Carter Lawrence, TDCI Commissioner and Fire Marshal, emphasized the importance of fire safety during the holidays. “The holidays are a special time of the year, full of togetherness and wonderful food with family and friends,” he stated. Lawrence urged Tennesseans to use working smoke alarms, never leave stoves unattended, and avoid drinking while cooking.
Assistant Commissioner for Fire Prevention, Mike Bell, highlighted the risks firefighters face when responding to home fires. “Every time firefighters respond to a home fire, they are putting their lives on the line in order to try and help save their neighbors,” Bell said. He encouraged residents to be cautious during cooking to minimize fire risks for themselves and firefighters.
To assist Tennesseans in maintaining kitchen safety, the SFMO provided several fire safety tips:
– Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling. If you must leave, turn off the stove.
– Be cautious with alcohol consumption while cooking.
– Use a kitchen timer to monitor food during boiling, simmering, baking, or roasting.
– Exercise caution with turkey fryers and consider oil-free models. Use them outdoors, away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
– Keep children and pets away from fryers, even when not in use, as the oil stays hot for hours.
– Use insulated potholders or oven mitts and consider wearing safety goggles to protect against oil splatter.
– Ensure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking to prevent flare-ups.
– Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and avoid using water on grease fires. Instead, cover the flame, leave the house, and call 9-1-1.
– Test smoke alarms to ensure they work. For assistance, contact your local fire department to see if they participate in the “Get Alarmed, Tennessee!” program.
For detailed information on home fire safety, download and print the SFMO home fire safety checklist.
Source: Read Original Release
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